First daughter Charlene Ruto presided over the unveiling of 82 Youth Ambassadors at an event held at the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) on Friday, November 29, 2024.
She launched the 82 Youth Ambassadors through her SMACHS Foundation where she is the Founder and Patron .
The Ambassadors have been tasked to spearhead efforts against hunger and climate change in 46 counties across Kenya.
At the same time, the ambassadors, aged 18 to 32, will champion climate-smart agriculture and mobilise their peers to embrace farming and the fight against climate change under the founder’s ambitious strategy, “The 30 Things”.
SMACHS Foundation is a youth-led non-profit organisation founded by Charlene.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Ms Charlene Ruto, emphasised the critical role of young people in tackling today’s challenges.
“Young people are not merely victims of climate change and food insecurity—they are innovators, entrepreneurs, and agents of change. Through their creativity, leadership, and skills, they have the power to transform food production and drive climate action for a sustainable future,” she said.
The selection process drew over 1,600 applicants, with 82 chosen for their leadership potential, passion for agriculture and climate action, problem-solving abilities, and innovative thinking. Although the programme aimed to recruit 94 ambassadors—10 per county—some counties had fewer applicants, while Lamu County had none.
Despite the agricultural sector being pivotal to Kenya’s economy, youth participation in farming remains below 30%, according to government data. However, by modernising agriculture through digital and mechanised solutions, the sector could unlock vast employment opportunities for the 800,000 young people entering the workforce annually.
The initiative aligns with findings from the 2023 African Youth Needs for Climate Action report by the UNFCCC, which revealed that African youth are deeply concerned about climate change and eager to collaborate with governments and organisations to develop innovative solutions.
The SMACHS Foundation is empowering a new generation of leaders to reshape Kenya’s agricultural landscape, driving food security, climate resilience, and economic growth for the nation through smart mechanized agriculture.
by DENNIS MILIMO
